Daily Reading: 1 Chronicles 19-20
If the Syrians are too strong for me, then you shall help me, but if the Ammonites are too strong for you, then I will help you. Be strong, and let us use our strength for our people and for the cities of our God, and may the Lord do what seems good to him. (1 Chronicles 19.12-13)
Devotional Thought: In today’s passage, we find an interesting contrast between two relationships. The relationship David attempted to establish with Hanun, the new king of the Ammorites who’d risen to power in the wake of his father’s passing. David sent a delegation to express his sympathy and condolences, but his actions were misinterpreted and misunderstood. Those close to Hanun suggested David was being deceitful and trying to size them up so he could take advantage of them. They captured David’s envoys and purposely dishonored them. A few verses later we get a glimpse into the relationship between Abishai and Joab. They pledge to help each other … come to each other’s rescue … lend practical assistance if they find themselves up against challenging obstacles or overwhelming circumstances. The relationship between these two men is healthy and sound.
What was the difference between the two relationships? It can be summarized in a single word—trust! There wasn’t a foundation of trust between David and Hanun, and motives were misinterpreted and actions were misconstrued. On the flip side, there was a foundation of trust between Abishai and Joab that resulted in a purposeful partnership, collaboration, and mutual support.
What are some things we can do to establish trust in our relationships? Some suggestions include …
• Be ethical and honest in our interactions
• Demonstrate integrity and consistency
• Listen and be responsive to what people say
• Follow through on commitments
• Be respectful in how we talk about folks
• Do not act impulsively but think through decisions
• Hold confidences
• Admit and acknowledge mistakes
Let us be people who engender trust because we reflect the character our God.
John Whitsett
Prayer: Lord, character matters! Help me to be a person of the highest moral and ethical character, engendering trust and exalting you in all relationships. Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 44:1-8
1 O God, we have heard with our ears, our fathers have told us, what deeds you performed in their days, in the days of old:
2 you with your own hand drove out the nations, but them you planted; you afflicted the peoples, but them you set free;
3 for not by their own sword did they win the land, nor did their own arm save them, but your right hand and your arm, and the light of your face, for you delighted in them.
4 You are my King, O God; ordain salvation for Jacob!
5 Through you we push down our foes; through your name we tread down those who rise up against us.
6 For not in my bow do I trust, nor can my sword save me.
7 But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us.
8 In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever. Selah
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